Defense Minister Warns Protesters Against Blocking Streets

Striking garment factory workers and protesting CNRP supporters should respect people of other nationalities and make sure they act within the boundaries of the law, Defense Minister Tea Banh said Thursday. Speaking at an opening ceremony for three new Royal Cambodian Armed Force science laboratory buildings, General Banh said that demonstrating is legal, but protesters should not block roads, and he accused the opposition of racism for its stance toward Vietnam. “The CNRP has incited Cambodian people to hate other races of people,” Gen. Banh said. “Vietnam is very important, and we should remain friendly together as we have been for a long time.” Gen. Banh also said that while the current demonstrations are legal, garment workers and the opposition should be careful not to go too far. … Responding to Gen. Banh’s comments, opposition spokesman Yim Sovann said on Friday that CNRP demonstrators have a duty to protect their country from the injustices of Prime Minster Hun Sen’s ruling CPP. …

Sek Odom
http://www.cambodiadaily.com/news/defense-minister-warns-protesters-against-blocking-streets-49733/